8 Ponytail Hairstyles Beyond the Basic Pull-Back

A ponytail does not have to be boring. These eight styles take the simplest concept in hairstyling and turn it into something intentional, polished, or playful — depending on what the day calls for.

1. The Sleek High Ponytail

Brush all hair up to the crown, smooth with a gel or edge control, and secure tightly. Wrap a strand of hair around the elastic to hide it. The sleek high ponytail is powerful, clean, and draws the eye upward.

The sleek high ponytail is also one of the best straight hairstyles for showing off length and shine. Edge control along the hairline creates the clean finish that separates a styled ponytail from a thrown-together one.

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2. The Textured Low Ponytail

A low ponytail at the nape with texture through the lengths — waves, curls, or tousled movement. Pull a few pieces free at the face. This is the elegant everyday ponytail that reads as effortless.

Add texture before tying with a salt spray or overnight braids — the texture makes the ponytail look deliberate rather than default. This is also a beautiful option for wedding hairstyles when paired with delicate pins or flowers.

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3. The Bubble Ponytail

A ponytail segmented with elastics into puffed sections — pull each section outward to create the bubble shape. Playful, modern, and requires zero braiding skill. Works on every texture and hair type.

The bubble ponytail also works on medium-length hairstyles that might not have enough length for other elaborate ponytail styles. Use small clear elastics every two inches and pull each section outward for the bubble effect.

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4. The Braided Ponytail

A ponytail with a braid incorporated — either a braid wrapping around the base, a French braid leading into the ponytail, or the ponytail itself braided. Adds structure and visual interest.

Combine techniques from our braided hairstyles guide — a Dutch braid leading into the ponytail creates the most impact. The braid adds structure and visual interest that a simple elastic cannot achieve.

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5. The Wrapped Ponytail

A strand of hair wrapped around the elastic — the simplest upgrade to any ponytail. Pin the wrapped strand underneath with a bobby pin. This single detail transforms a gym ponytail into a styled look.

This is the easiest upgrade for a low-maintenance ponytail — it takes ten seconds and signals that the ponytail is a deliberate style choice rather than a last-minute solution.

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6. The Voluminous Ponytail

A ponytail with the crown lifted for maximum height — tease the roots before pulling back, or use a claw clip underneath to prop up the top section. The volume makes the ponytail event-ready.

The claw-clip technique works particularly well for fine hair — clip a small claw clip at the crown underneath the ponytail to prop up the top section for instant lift.

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7. The Side Ponytail (Modern)

A low ponytail swept to one side — the modern version is low and loose, not the high side pony of the past. Pair with a deep side part and texture through the lengths for a relaxed, asymmetric look.

The modern side ponytail pairs beautifully with wavy or curly hairstyles where the texture cascades over one shoulder with natural movement.

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8. The Ribbon-Tied Ponytail

A ponytail tied with a ribbon, velvet bow, or silk scarf instead of an elastic — the accessory becomes the focal point. Choose a color that complements your outfit and the ponytail becomes a style statement.

Velvet ribbons in seasonal colors make this ponytail an instant holiday hairstyle or party look. Match the ribbon to your outfit for a cohesive style statement.

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